We expect jointly with the EU to determine the next steps on the way to membership during the EU-Ukraine Summit in Kyiv: Olha Stefanishyna

Ukraine must become a competitive, strong and reliable member of the European Union. The Office of the President, the Parliament and the Government continue to do everything necessary 24/7 to make sure that the country continues not only to function, but also to prepare for the reconstruction after the war, based on EU norms and standards. 

This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna during an online event organised by the European Policy Centre in Brussels. 

Outlining the priorities for 2023, the official stressed the importance of further strengthening Ukraine's defence capabilities and ensuring uninterrupted international military support. In the area of reforms, the priority is to complete the political reforms necessary for the early start of negotiations on EU accession.

"Peace, security and stability of Europe, continuation of the successful history of the European project as such - all this is possible only if Ukraine is combat-ready and strong, if we can defeat russia on the battlefield," said Olha Stefanishyna. "All political discussions are focused around this goal. At the same time, we continue the path of transformation. In fact, after February 24, nothing prevented us from intensifying our efforts to adopt the reforms necessary for further membership in the EU." 

She also added that Ukraine maintains an active dialogue with the EU on the integration agenda. 

"We hope that at the EU-Ukraine Summit, which will take place in a few weeks in Kyiv, we will form a list of further steps together with the EU side. Our main appeal to the European institutions is to keep up with Ukraine while we are moving fast," the Deputy Prime Minister said.